Abstract
This study compared the levels of the trace metals zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in the bivalve Lithophaga lithophaga from Izmir Bay (Aegean Sea) between 2001 and 2011. Comparisons were made on the basis of season, as well as year. All values were measured by voltammetry. Median values of trace metals for all seasons in 2011 were 244.67μgZng(-1), 1.09μgCdg(-1), 7.64μgPbg(-1) and 56.03μgCug(-1) as dry weight. The results showed a general trend of decreasing Zn, Pb and Cu concentrations over time, but an increasing trend for Cd. Mean trace metal concentrations in individuals of L. lithophaga in 2011 exceeded the permissible limit published in the Turkish Food Codex for Pb, and closely approached the limit for Zn. The mean Cd concentration was within the permissible limit of the Turkish Food Codex, but exceeded the limit of the World Health Organization. Levels of Cu were within permissible limits of published regulations.
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